Amgen announce major expansion of Dun Laoghaire facility

DUBLIN – (April 26, 2012) - Amgen and the Irish Government today announced the start of a $200 million-plus expansion programme in Ireland that is expected to result in the creation of 100 jobs. The Taoiseach, Enda Kenny T.D. and the Tánaiste, Eamon Gilmore T.D. officiated at the groundbreaking ceremony today, marking the commencement of a major construction programme at the Amgen plant at Pottery Road, in Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin. The investment is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland.

The $200-plus million expansion programme will include the construction of an approximately 11,700 square metres building extension, new production plant, expanded warehouse and the major refurbishment of the existing buildings. In addition, a significant research and development investment will also see the Dun Laoghaire facility undergo a major technology process enhancement to transform the plant into one of the leading biotechnology manufacturing sites in the world.

Today’s announcement comes almost a year after Amgen purchased the former Pfizer plant in Dun Laoghaire, resulting in the continuation of all 280 jobs at the site. The expansion will result in the creation of up to 100 new roles within Amgen, in addition to approximately 350 construction jobs during the 19-month building period. Recruitment for the Amgen positions has already commenced, and many more will be employed in a contract capacity.

IDA Ireland worked closely with Amgen to attract this investment to Ireland against intense competition from other global locations and is assisting the company with the expansion of the operation.

Welcoming the announcement, the Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD said, "The Government welcomes this exciting expansion by Amgen as we continue to target the development of the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry through our Action Plan for Jobs. This is a really positive development for Ireland and for Dun Laoghaire with the creation of 350 construction jobs and a 100 new high end jobs at their facility. It is a great example of industry working with the local community and it sends a signal of confidence in Dublin and Ireland as the location of choice for biotechnology and pharmaceutical investment outside the US. For our part, the Government will work hard to support an environment where R&D can flourish so that the IDA can continue to attract important investment and jobs like this."

Commenting on the investment Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore TD said, “Over a year ago, I was delighted to learn of Amgen’s decision to purchase the manufacturing facility on Pottery Road and the resulting retention of 280 jobs. Today’s announcement is more welcome news for the local economy and the Country as a whole.”

“Amgen’s significant investment is a clear endorsement of Ireland as a location of choice for leading global corporations. The investment is a welcome boost for the local economy and I would like to offer Amgen my continued support into the future, ” the Tánaiste added.

Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Richard Bruton TD said, “Today’s announcement that Amgen, the world-leading biotech company, is investing $200 million in expanding its facility in Dun Laoghaire, with the creation of 100 full-time jobs as well as a further 350 jobs in the construction phase, is another great boost for the economy and evidence of what is possible for Ireland at the heart of a stable Europe. Through continued implementation of the Action Plan for Jobs, the Government is determined to ensure that we can build on the string of announcements over the past few months and achieve the levels of jobs and growth we so badly need.”

“We are very pleased to expand our investment in Ireland,” said Martin VanTrieste, senior vice president of Quality at Amgen. “We applaud the Irish Government and IDA Ireland for its vision in promoting innovation and science, which align with Amgen’s commitment to innovation and investing in scientific programs that make a difference for patients.”

“As we expand internationally, Dun Laoghaire will enhance our global production capability, ensuring continuity of supply of Amgen medicines for seriously ill patients worldwide. We appreciate the support of our staff, the local community, the local authorities, IDA Ireland and the Irish Government,” VanTrieste continued.

Welcoming the announcement, IDA Ireland’s CEO, Barry O’Leary said, “Ireland is the largest Development and Manufacturing (D&M) location in the world for Biopharmaceuticals, outside the US. Amgen’s decision to locate this strategically important investment here is a clear endorsement of Ireland’s recognised strengths in this field. By providing the right environment and a commitment to support R&D investment, Ireland has positioned itself as a leading location for biotech investments. The strategic and collaborative nature of this investment coupled with the strong reputation of the facility and staff, make this a truly excellent win for both Ireland and Amgen.”

To mark today’s milestone, Amgen and the Amgen Foundation announced that Ireland has been selected to participate in a new professional development initiative for science teachers in Europe. The Amgen Science Teacher Training Initiative will provide over 500 secondary life science teachers in Ireland, France, Germany and Poland with meaningful professional development opportunities while advancing best in country programmes in local curriculum and language. In Ireland, the selected programme partner is the Centre for the Advancement of Science and Mathematics Teaching & Learning - a multidisciplinary research team involving scientists, mathematicians and educationalists from Dublin City University (DCU) and St Patrick's College, Drumcondra (SPD). More information can be found online at www.scienceteachertraining.com.

About Amgen
Amgen discovers, develops, manufactures and delivers innovative human therapeutics. A biotechnology pioneer since 1980, Amgen was one of the first companies to realize the new science's promise by bringing safe, effective medicines from lab to manufacturing plant to patient. Amgen therapeutics have changed the practice of medicine, helping millions of people around the world in the fight against cancer, kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, bone disease and other serious illnesses. With a deep and broad pipeline of potential new medicines, Amgen remains committed to advancing science to dramatically improve people's lives. To learn more about our pioneering science and vital medicines, visit www.amgen.com. Follow us on www.twitter.com/amgen.

About IDA Ireland
IDA Ireland is Ireland’s inward investment promotion agency. The agency works with foreign companies to secure new investment and collaborates with existing foreign investors in Ireland to help expand and develop their businesses.

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